Product Description

This tablet combines gabapentin, an anticonvulsant that helps control seizures and nerve pain, with methylcobalamin, an active form of vitamin B12 that supports nerve health and regeneration. It is primarily used for managing neuropathic pain (e.g., from shingles or diabetes) and as an adjunct for certain types of seizures in epilepsy. Epilepsy involves abnormal electrical activity in the brain, leading to seizures that can cause loss of awareness or convulsions. Neuropathic pain, or neuralgia, often presents as sharp, burning, or tingling sensations along damaged nerves. This medication requires a prescription. Gabapentin has a rapid onset (1–2 hours) and reaches steady-state levels in 1–2 days, while methylcobalamin supports overall nerve function. Clinical studies indicate it can reduce neuropathic pain by 30–50% after 4–8 weeks, based on trials like those in the Journal of Pain.

Uses

• Relief of neuropathic pain from conditions such as post-herpetic neuralgia (after shingles), diabetic neuropathy, or trigeminal neuralgia (facial nerve pain).

• Adjunctive treatment for partial seizures in epilepsy, used alongside other antiepileptic drugs to reduce seizure frequency.

• Supportive therapy for other nerve-related issues, such as those caused by chronic alcohol use, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, or long-term nerve inflammation.

• Not indicated for: Other seizure types (e.g., absence seizures), migraine prevention, or isolated vitamin B12 deficiency (use specific B12 supplements for this).

How it works

This tablet combines two components for complementary effects on the nervous system:

• Gabapentin (300 mg): Binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in central nervous system (CNS) neurons, reducing calcium influx and the release of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate and norepinephrine. This stabilizes overactive nerve membranes, decreasing neuropathic pain signals and seizure activity without directly mimicking GABA.

• Methylcobalamin (500 mcg): As the active coenzyme form of vitamin B12, it promotes myelin sheath repair, axonal regeneration, and neuronal metabolism by supporting homocysteine metabolism and reducing oxidative stress. It enhances nerve conduction and aids in nerve repair in damaged or deficient states.

Together, gabapentin addresses pain and seizure pathways, while methylcobalamin supports nerve recovery. Gabapentin has a bioavailability of about 60% at lower doses (e.g., 300 mg), decreasing with higher doses, and is primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Methylcobalamin is absorbed in the ileum. Onset of pain relief is typically 1–2 weeks, with full effects in 4–6 weeks.

Benefits

• Comprehensive neuropathic relief: Reduces pain intensity by 30–50%, easing symptoms like burning or tingling; methylcobalamin aids in nerve repair and regeneration.

• Seizure control: As an adjunct, it can lower partial seizure frequency by 20–40% (based on gabapentin studies), with a favorable profile compared to older antiepileptics.

• Neuroprotective effects: The combination helps reduce inflammation and support myelin repair, making it useful for conditions like diabetic or alcoholic neuropathy. Note that gabapentin may cause weight gain in some users, unlike certain other antiepileptic drugs.

• Convenience: Typically taken once or twice daily, improving adherence for long-term management of chronic conditions without significant tolerance development.

How to use

Take Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP with or without food. Swallow it as a whole with a glass of water; do not chew or break it.

Side Effects

Common side effects (usually mild and transient):

• Neurological: Dizziness, somnolence (sleepiness), fatigue, or ataxia (unsteadiness).

• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Less common or rare but serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Psychiatric: Mood changes, suicidal thoughts, or behavior.

• Respiratory: Respiratory depression or apnea, especially with other CNS depressants.

• Other: Peripheral edema (swelling), weight gain, blurred vision, tremor, or hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., rash).

Report any persistent or severe symptoms to your doctor; most side effects can be managed by adjusting the dose.

Safety Advice

• Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity to components; avoid abrupt stop. Use caution in: Renal impairment, hepatic disease, the elderly, or a history.

• Pregnancy: Use only if benefits outweigh risks —may cause fetal neural tube defects; folate co-supplementation advised. Breastfeeding: Gabapentin is excreted in milk; B12 is beneficial—generally OK with guidance.

• Monitoring: Baseline renal function, B12 levels if deficient; periodic CBC, mood assessment; self-monitor for dizziness.

• Interactions: Potentiates CNS depression with alcohol/opioids/antihistamines; antacids reduce absorption; no major with B12. Inform the doctor of all medications.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs

What is the use of Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP?

Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP is used to treat partial seizures (epilepsy) and various conditions of nerve pain/damage like post-herpetic neuralgia.

How does Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP work?

Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP works by controlling the abnormal electrical activity of the brain that causes seizures (fits). It also promotes the repair and protection of damaged nerve cells.

Does Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP cause weight gain?

Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP may cause weight gain due to an increase in appetite. Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and following a balanced diet.

Does Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP cause suicidal thoughts?

People taking Gabapentin 300mg & Methylcobalamin 500mcg Tablet IP should be closely monitored for suicidal thoughts or behaviour. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor immediately if you experience suicidal tendencies.